The UK Minister of Defense inspected the Challenger 3 armored fighting vehicles produced during the RBSL visit to the Telford site.

Defense Minister Maria Eagle said Telford's skilled manufacturing base was helping to equip soldiers with high-tech equipment and furthering the government's growth mission.

Her comments came on a visit to Rheinmetall BAE Systems Land (RBSL)’s Hadley Castle Works Factory in Telford, where she met crucial defense procurement staff and chaired a roundtable with defense industry leaders from the Telford area, as part of consultation for the new Defense Industrial Strategy.

Under a £950 million contract, Challenger 3 production has generated nearly 300 highly skilled jobs within RBSL, including 130 engineers and 70 technicians, as well as an additional 450 roles supported across the UK supply chain.

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Alongside her visit to the factory and industry talks, Minister Eagle also had the opportunity to tour the cutting-edge Defense Fulfillment Centre (DFC). The £83 million DFC at MOD Donnington plays a crucial role in supporting the UK Armed Forces by ensuring the efficient delivery of critical equipment and supplies across the globe.

The Minister for Defense Procurement and Industry, Maria Eagle MP, said: “Telford is at the heart of UK defense, and I was pleased to witness first-hand how our defense industry is equipping the Armed Forces with 21st-century armored fighting vehicles. In the face of global threats, the upcoming Defense Industrial Strategy will drive economic growth, boost British jobs, and strengthen national security.”

Will Gibby, Managing Director of RBSL, said: “We are proud to welcome Maria Eagle MP to our Telford facility. Through programs like Boxer and Challenger 3, RBSL is committed to providing sovereign capability for the UK, supporting the British Army, and investing in the workforce of tomorrow through our apprenticeship and graduate schemes. Today’s visit highlights the value of UK-based manufacturing and the expertise we bring to the defense industry.”